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The Nature of a Lady - (The Secrets of the Isles) by Roseanna M White
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About this item
Highlights
- 1906Lady Elizabeth "Libby" Sinclair, with her love of microscopes and nature, isn't favored in society.
- About the Author: Roseanna M. White pens her novels beneath her Betsy Ross flag, with her Jane Austen action figure watching over her.
- 384 Pages
- Fiction + Literature Genres, Christian
- Series Name: The Secrets of the Isles
Description
About the Book
Fleeing to the beautiful Isles of Scilly, Lady Elizabeth Sinclair stumbles upon dangerous secrets left behind by her cottage's former occupant and agrees to help the missing girl's brother, Oliver Tremayne, find his sister. As the two work together, they uncover ancient legends, pirate wrecks, betrayal, and the most mysterious phenomenon of all: love.Book Synopsis
1906Lady Elizabeth "Libby" Sinclair, with her love of microscopes and nature, isn't favored in society. She flees to the beautiful Isles of Scilly for the summer and stumbles into the dangerous secrets left behind by her holiday cottage's former occupant, also named Elizabeth, who mysteriously vanished.
Oliver Tremayne--gentleman and clergyman--is determined to discover what happened to his sister, and he's happy to accept the help of the girl now living in what should have been Beth's summer cottage . . . especially when he realizes it's the curious young lady he met briefly two years ago, who shares his love of botany and biology. But the hunt for his sister involves far more than nature walks, and he can't quite believe all the secrets Beth had been keeping from him.
As Libby and Oliver work together, they find ancient legends, pirate wrecks, betrayal, and the most mysterious phenomenon of all: love.
From the Back Cover
1906Lady Elizabeth "Libby" Sinclair, with her love of microscopes and nature, isn't favored in society. She flees to the beautiful Isles of Scilly for the summer and stumbles onto the dangerous secrets left behind by her holiday cottage's former occupant, also named Elizabeth, who mysteriously vanished.
Oliver Tremayne--gentleman and clergyman--is determined to discover what happened to his sister, with the help of the girl now living in what should have been Beth's summer cottage . . . especially when he realizes it's the curious young lady he met briefly two years ago, who shares his love of botany and biology. But the hunt for his sister involves far more than nature walks, and he can't quite believe all the secrets Beth had been keeping from him.
As Libby and Oliver work together, they uncover ancient legends, pirate wrecks, betrayal, and the most mysterious phenomenon of all: love.
"The Nature of a Lady by Roseanna M. White is an excellent novel full of mystery, adventure, and romance. It has pirates, treasure, ghosts, murder, and lifelong rivalries that will keep the pages turning. . . I highly recommend The Nature of a Lady to anyone who enjoys historical romance with a bit of mystery thrown in. This is the first book in the Secrets of the Isles series and I will be anxiously awaiting the next book." --Fresh Fiction
"The idyllic setting forms a perfect backdrop for the events which unfold; strange sightings, unexplained deaths, family feuds, hidden treasure, intrigue and danger, all the hallmarks of a romantic mystery where suspicions abound. . . .The story is cocooned in the wondrous mystery of the ocean, the beaches, the flora and fauna, which settles into comfortable narrative pacing; however, White never loses sight of the goal - to weave a tale that is absorbing to the very last page. Romance blossoms, and two couples unexpectedly find love."--Historical Novel Reviews
About the Author
Roseanna M. White pens her novels beneath her Betsy Ross flag, with her Jane Austen action figure watching over her. When not writing fiction, she's homeschooling her two children, editing and designing, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of numerous novels, ranging from biblical fiction to American-set romances to Edwardian British series. Roseanna lives with her family in West Virginia. Learn more at www.roseannamwhite.com.Dimensions (Overall): 8.4 Inches (H) x 5.5 Inches (W) x 1.2 Inches (D)
Weight: .75 Pounds
Suggested Age: 22 Years and Up
Number of Pages: 384
Genre: Fiction + Literature Genres
Sub-Genre: Christian
Series Title: The Secrets of the Isles
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
Format: Paperback
Author: Roseanna M White
Language: English
Street Date: May 4, 2021
TCIN: 81941696
UPC: 9780764237188
Item Number (DPCI): 247-25-3236
Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
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Estimated ship dimensions: 1.2 inches length x 5.5 inches width x 8.4 inches height
Estimated ship weight: 0.75 pounds
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5 out of 5 stars with 6 ratings
4.9 out of 5 stars with 21 reviews
100% would recommend
3 recommendations
Excellent read!
5 out of 5 stars
SB1989 - 3 years ago
The Nature of a Lady was an outstanding read. I love the richness of character development, as well as the elements of romance, intrigue, and adventure. I loved that the story revolves not just around one or two main characters, but a host of wonderful characters that offers friendships, adversaries, and romantic involvement. I really enjoyed not only seeing Libby find someone to love and that loved her for herself, but also Mabena, Libby's lady's maid, finding love too. The adventure and intrigue in the story just added to the depth of the plot and keep me reading, needing to know what would develop next. I appreciate Roseanna's well researched and descriptive writing. Her creation of characters that don't fall into the typical makes her stories like this one, special and uniquely appealing. Everything about this novel, including the beautiful cover, deserves a five-star rating. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Magical Historical Fiction
5 out of 5 stars
Rachel - 4 years ago
I could NOT put this book down—I was disgruntled by disruptions, picked it up every free minute I had, and stayed up late to finish it. If that doesn’t speak volumes, I don’t know what will! It was so marvelously written, and the characters and storyline were fantastic. I loved the POV, and the setting. Gah! It was all so great. I cannot wait to see what else is in store for the Isles of Scilly when book #2 arrives, To Treasure an Heiress. Thank you to Bethany House Publishers and Roseanne White for a copy of The Nature of a Lady. All opinions are my own.
A novel of mystery, suspense, and romance.
5 out of 5 stars
Beauty in the Binding - 4 years ago
It took me nearly a week to read The Nature of a Lady by Roseanna M. White. This story of searching for pirate treasure, a missing person, and one’s place in society is meant to be savored. The author’s storytelling ability shines in both the complexity of the plot and the beautiful prose that reads like poetry. I happily returned night after night to this novel of mystery, suspense, and romance. Although Libby Sinclair is billed as the leading lady in The Nature of a Lady, her maid/friend Mabena Moon shares the spotlight as both women experience substantial character development and blossoming romances. Oliver and Libby’s slow burn romance advances at a gradual pace that grows into a deep, beautiful connection. On the other hand, Mabena and Casek have a second-chance romance with instant tension and crackling chemistry. I enjoyed watching both relationships change and grow. The Nature of a Lady stands as the first installment in Roseanna M. White’s The Secrets of the Isles series, and I am looking forward to book two. Readers who enjoy historical romance with spiritual themes and intriguing mystery will likely enjoy The Nature of a Lady. Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
A Must Read For Everyone!
5 out of 5 stars
TheMorningChapter - 4 years ago
A treasure hunt, a missing sibling, old secrets and mysteries and a beautiful romance all came together for a delightful read. Oh my goodness! What a book! I think this is my favorite of Roseanna's which is really saying something because I LOVE all of her books. I absolutely loved getting to know a new set of people, new families and friends. Libby was so fun, with her love of books and botany. And how could you not love Oliver? As always with Roseanna's books you are hooked from the very first line and unable to step away until the very end. The spiritual content was solid throughout the book, the message in the story, beautiful. With Libby and Oliver's shared love of botany there was a lot of botanical discussion's but not overly so. You were never bored, or skimming paragraphs. There was just enough that you knew the author had done her research and formed her characters very well. I literally could not put it down! The last one hundred pages took me an entire day to read. Not because I was busy. Not because it was dull. But because I kept putting the book down and walking away, not wanting it to end. It was a sad moment when I read 'The End' and had to leave the Isles of Scilly. I can't wait to return here soon and see what other adventures they all have! *I received this book for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
The Nature of a Lady
5 out of 5 stars
amybooksy - 4 years ago
I have loved every book I have read by Roseanna M White. I was so excited to have the opportunity to read her newest release and the start of The Secrets of the Isles series, The Nature of a Lady. I was far from being disappointed. It was so very good. This one may be my new favorite she has written to date. I loved the beautiful setting and adored Libby right from the start. Her strength and courage was inspiring. I found her and Oliver’s story to be fun and entertaining. I am giving The Nature of a Lady a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean historical romance. I am looking forward to reading the next installment from The Secrets of the Isles series I received a paperback copy of The Nature of a Lady from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
Great Historical Romance
4 out of 5 stars
Connie Saunders - 4 years ago
The Nature of a Lady has mystery and suspense, and a tantalizing romance between Lady Elizabeth Sinclair and clergyman Oliver Tremaine. Libby, who loves plants and science, but is uncertain about God, and Oliver, who believes that God is the true Author! This nature-loving young woman and clergyman are fantastic together, and their romance is swoon-worthy! I also loved learning about the Isles of Scilly as they may have been in 1906. Fans of Roseanna M. White will love this book, and newbies will add her to their "must read list" of authors. I highly recommend The Nature of a Lady and I can't wait to see what's next in this series! I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a favorable review, and I am voluntarily sharing my thoughts.
Great New Series
5 out of 5 stars
Kimp - 4 years ago
The Nature of a Lady by Roseanna M. White is the first book in her Secrets of the Isles series. Lady Elizabeth Sinclair is spending the summer on the Isles of Scilly with her microscopes and her maid. She wasn’t expecting to find danger and secrets. Oliver Tremayne wants to know what happened to his sister. Together they will spend an unforgettable summer. What a great beginning to another wonderful series by Ms. White. The characters seemed so real. I enjoyed the interaction and friendship between Libby and Mabena. I think Mamm-wynn was my favorite character. I loved her wit and spunk! The scenery was described so well. I could almost smell the different flowers and the sea air! I can’t wait for the next installment. I received this book from the author for my honest review.
Wonderful new series!
4 out of 5 stars
kathae - 4 years ago
From its beautiful cover to its satisfying ending, with all the poetic prose in between, The Nature of a Lady by Roseanna M. White is a wonderful book that I highly recommend. I was transported to a place I had never heard of before, the Isles of Scilly, off the coast of Cornwall, England. There is much history there to support The Secrets of the Isles series. In this Book One, Libby is spending the summer there to get away from her brother's insistence that she marry his titled friend. Knowing that would not be a good match, she relishes this time away, where she can study the flora and fauna of the islands. More than a young lady trying to find her place in this world, there is an element of mystery that heightens as the story progresses. Along with that increasingly dangerous mystery that must be solved, there is a gentle, sweet romance that develops. Actually, more than one. Many sub-plots and themes make this a solid, thorough story for readers to enjoy. You may want to book passage to the islands so you can explore them yourself! Readers of historical romance and Christian fiction will certainly enjoy Libby's story. I received a copy of this story from the publisher, Bethany House, for review purposes. The thoughts expressed here are my own.
So Unique
5 out of 5 stars
Jaquelyn - 4 years ago
The Nature of a Lady promises to be the start of another great series from Roseanna M. White. I found myself anxiously awaiting what would happen next and kept turning the pages late into the night. The characters were so unique and I easily fell in love with all of them. I can’t wait to see what the second book in the Secrets of the Isles series holds! Libby was so unlike any normal London lady. Doing her best to fit into a world where she didn’t belong was no easy task, but she tried. When her well meaning brother decides it’s in her best intrest to be married, he began pushing her into a marriage with his best friend, and that was the final icing on the cake. Hoping some time away will give everyone fresh perspective she embarks on an adventure to a place where her maid grew up. Mabena Moon is also Libby’s friend, and Libby knows that the little island where she grew up is the perfect place to escape and study a world so different than hers normal one. What she finds just might take her breath away. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Fiction with a little mystery thrown in. White kept my interest the entire time and I enjoyed watching the interactions between the island characters, some friendly and some not so friendly. I am anxiously awaiting the next book where I can spend more time with them! I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and was in no way forced to post a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Engaging historical romance
5 out of 5 stars
Anne - 4 years ago
Roseanna M. White is one of my historical fiction go-to authors and she has done another wonderful job with The Nature of a Lady. In this first book in a new series, The Secrets of the Isles, readers will find themselves fascinated by life on the Scilly Isles, off the southwestern coast of England, during the early 1900s. Gig races, pirate's booty, community bonds that hold fast through thick and thin, a place where everyone knows everything about everyone, or do they? The author has given her vibrant characters depth and realism and portrayed their inner feelings profoundly allowing those emotions to resonate within the reader. Libby, Beth, Elizabeth--so many of the same name, and yet each so different. Lady Elizabeth, Libby, a lady on holiday to gather strength to refuse her brother's choice of husband for her--wanting to find a place where she fits in, and it certainly doesn't seem to be the world of London society. Beth, strong and determined to protect her family, and now missing. And then there is the Elizabeth of the past, how does she fit in? Mabenna, the maid, or just who is she? And Mamm-wynn, such a precious and seemingly prescient grandmother. I'd take her any day as mine! I loved watching the characters change and mature in their attitudes and relationships with each other. White is a master at blending historical information with faith-filled inspiration. Will Libby be able to figure out where she belongs as she begins to recognize that the God who created the world of nature she loves to study, knows her true name and knows how she fits in His world. Lessons of faith are threaded throughout giving readers much to think about. Scenes and conversations are authentic and add so much. Interest is kept high as there are several surprise twists to the plot and a climactic ending that is rather edge-of-the-seat suspenseful. I really enjoyed this book and can not wait for the next in the series. Readers who love historical fiction will not want to miss The Nature of a Lady. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers. A favorable review was not required and the opinions are my own.
Good Read
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
Thoughtsofareader - 4 years ago
This is the first book I have read by Roseanna M. White. This is the first book in a series called “The Secrets of the Isles”. I could sense the intrigue from the very beginning of this book. However, I was originally afraid this book would read slow for me as some historical fiction books do, but it surprisedly did not. I did think some of the chapters were a little on the long side but since the plot was so good I did not let it bother me. One of the things I like about this book is that the secondary characters are just as well written as the main characters. They are so well written that you almost find yourself forgetting which two are the main characters of the story. Mabena Moon, the maid to Libby, was such a strong willed person and I thought she really balanced out Libby. I was glad that the author made them friends even though in the era this book took place that was an oddity. I also loved that Libby did not act like your typical lady from those days. Each character in this book brought so much to the story that I think that if even one was left out it would not have been the same. I cannot wait until the next book in this series. Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in order to give an honest review.
Amazing start to an Historical Romance Series!
5 out of 5 stars
- 4 years ago
This is an absolutely fantastic start to a new series from Roseanna White! I have to say that what made this book amazing was especially the character development. Other than the enchanting setting, as I already said, and the poetic descriptions and some dialogues, the characters were so vividly portrayed, that I felt their struggles and fears were mine too. I related to Libby’s desire to belong and be loved for who she is, not the title she was born to. She was sweet, shy, fragile in some ways, vulnerable, yet strong and determined in others. But her heart was huge and full of love to give and desire to be given. Oliver was the perfect clergyman, with his heart for people, his loyalty to the core, and his ability to see through them into their souls. I loved that when he held a person’s elbow, he could determine the person’s character. And the way he saw into your eyes, as if he could see your bare soul, because he did. He was truly charming and empathetic. I totally fell in love with him! The romance was totally sweet, clean. Even if they fell in love kind of fast, it didn’t feel rushed, but natural, as if they were really meant to be with each other. It was swoony! There are some interesting faith themes in the book that were artfully touched. The battle of science against religion, how they don’t have to be in opposition, but complement each other, the vision of God loving us unconditionally, our trust in Him despite the outcomes in life. I loved how Oliver’s dialogues with Libby break her prejudices and bring her to a better knowledge of a God that never forsakes us and loves us as we are, human and flawed. The mystery, the pirate story was something that made the story all the more engaging and quite a page turner. I loved the adventurous, mysterious and dangerous story side of the story. Definitely, I book and series I highly recommend! Deep and profound, yet enjoyable, sweet and very intriguing! Five stars!
The Unexpected--Friends, Mystery & Love!
5 out of 5 stars
Tickmenot - 4 years ago
Lady Elizabeth, Libby, has just arrived at the Isles of Scilly to escape the marriage her brother is trying to force her into. Her love of nature and science go against the behavior of young women in 1909 British society—her brother and mother hope to change her so she will act like a proper English Lady. No sooner have Libby and her maid arrived at their vacation cottage than her summer plans suddenly change. Libby is mistaken for the former tenant of the cottage, whose name was also Elizabeth, and who has disappeared. Unusual deliveries are made to the cottage—but none of it was ordered by Libby—and then she begins to receive threats. When a worried Oliver, the brother of the missing Elizabeth, arrives at their doorstep, the two women beg to help him hunt for her--and to stop the mysterious happenings that have been directed toward Libby. That opens the door to all kinds of danger, including attacks, legends of pirates along with their treasure, some tender romance and shocking twists along with the surprise of who has been behind it all. Unexpected friendships, and finding a place where you belong are the cherry on the top of this tale. This is a great story; get it for yourself and you will love it, too—this is a 5-plus star book. It will be enjoyed by everyone who likes clean stories filled with adventure, mystery, faith, finding friends, and a soulmate! Bethany House Publishers has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, The Nature of a Lady, for the purpose of review.
Excellent Historical Adventure
5 out of 5 stars
labornotinvain - 4 years ago
A riveting read with a well built plot and characters that stay with you long after the last page is turned down. A case of mistaken identity draws Lady Elizabeth "Libby" Sinclair into a mysterious adventure while on holiday on the Isles of Scilly to escape the matchmaking schemes of her brother. Libby is an intelligent young woman, with a passion for studying nature. I admired her logical sensibilities, while also being sincerely compassionate, taking time to be present with others. I especially loved her interactions with Oliver and how he helped to open her eyes to see things in a new light. Ms. White brings the breathtaking setting to life, from the cliffs and caves to the cottages and beaches through the people who love the isles best. My very favorite character had to be Mamm-wynn, for how closely she walked with God and trusted His urgings, never hesitating to follow. She is a sage woman, who comes off as a little eccentric, and completely endearing, beloved by all. I also really enjoyed many of the other characters and hope to see more of them in future books, and honestly I'm still not sure what to think of Sheridan--could he be hiding something? Fantastic characters, filled with mystery, adventure, and a stunningly beautiful setting, this book quickly won me over and had me wishing for the next book in the series before I'd even finished this one. I loved the premise of mistaken identity, with multiple smart capable heroines, a resounding message of faith, and high stakes adventure. This is a well paced and plotted story with a lot of things going on at once and multiple levels of relationships between the various characters. I am definitely hoping to see many familiar faces in future books to come! Definitely a solid read all the way through, you won't want to miss it! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Romance and Intrigue on the Isles of Scilly
5 out of 5 stars
Thumbs up graphic, would recommend
C Adams - 4 years ago
Roseanna M White has done it again- provided a fabulous historical romance with a good little mystery! This book takes place on the Isles of Scilly (pronounced silly) and now I want to go live there! Or at the very least visit. Lady Elizabeth Sinclair aka Libby has gone to the islands to avoid her Earl of a brother's marriage schemes but also to document plants and animals to her botany and biology loving heart's content. Accompanied by only her lady's maid, Mabena, who grew up on one of the islands, Libby enjoys many freedoms and misses none of the formality of balls or sitting rooms. In fact, she avoids telling people her title altogether. It seems the perfect, relaxing holiday for this slightly nerdy debutante. However, when packages start arriving at the cottage for one Elizabeth from mysterious men, Libby and Mabena soon find themselves unraveling clues not the least of which is what happened to the former renter of their cottage, Elizabeth (Beth) Tremayne? Soon Oliver Tremayne, vicor from the island of Tresco, shows up looking for his sister. As the mystery grows, can people stay safe and discover the secrets that led Beth Tremayne to disappear? One of my favorite things in this book is the community bond found on Tresco, the island that Mabena and Oliver come from. There's an amazing garden for Libby, a grandpa storyteller, a future telling and dear grandma, and Wednesday rowing races that bring the whole community together to cheer on the crews. When one community member dies, they all mourne his loss. They accept Libby despite knowing her station, calling her "their lady." On top of all the mystery and community goodness there is not one but two swoon worthy romances! Needless to say, I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical romances or mysteries. I cannot wait for the next books! The descriptions of the Isles made me feel like I was there and the people felt like family. Won't you come join me? Thank you to Bethany House, Roseanna M White and Netgalley for a complimentary copy of the book. I was not required to provide a positive review. My opinions are my own.
Lush, Lovely Historical Fiction!
4 out of 5 stars
Rebecca Maney - 4 years ago
4.5 stars " I always say that there are some born here. Some who visit. Some who leave. Others who stay. . . . . When we stay, it's because the islands know our names . . . " Did these islands possibly know her name? Lady Elizabeth Sinclair wondered if anyone in her life had truly known her name, the hopes and dreams it represented . . . certainly not her brother, or he would have never insisted that she marry a man whom she hardly knew, much less loved. Surely sneaking away on a summer holiday would only postpone the inevitable, nevertheless, the Isles of Scilly would provide her with hours of uninterrupted enjoyment, for she was a lady who loved exploring nature far more that tittering away her time mingling with polite society. But never in her wildest imagination could Elizabeth have anticipated getting mixed up with the perplexing, albeit dangerous secrets of Isles. Or its handsome vicar. "I'm just not a man of science, my lady. I'm also a man of faith. The sort who says God created an orderly universe, set rules in motion, . . . but who also believes that a God who made such rules can also break them on rare, very special occasions. . .. . . He can raise the dead." Oliver Tremayne was a puzzle, to be sure. So knowledgeable about creation, and yet willing to have faith in a God whom he couldn't see. So kind, so genuine, so manly . . . . Elizabeth had never entertained the thought that she might take delight in studying a specimen of the male species. Birds, bugs, and flowering plants usually held her attention; but this man . . . and his friends, and his family (one of whom was missing, the other being missed already), and his faith. And they would need ever bit of all three to find the kind of treasure that others had been willing to kill for. Enticing, entertaining, and enchanting all describe this considerable volume of pure reading pleasure, with its myriad of interesting characters who serve to evoke a lush, imaginative mirage of an island paradise where everyone knows your name. "Libby . . . . listened to the night insects as they made their debut. And could swear that when the wind blew again, she could hear the islands whisper, 'Elizabeth'. " I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.
Highly Recommended
5 out of 5 stars
ChritianFictionandMore - 4 years ago
The previous books that I had read by this author were war time books set in Europe. While they were wonderful reads, it was nice to read a different sort of story by Roseanna M. White. The Nature of a Lady is set in the early 1900s in the Scillies, a group of islands off the southwest tip of England. The story follows Lady Elizabeth Sinclair; her lady's maid, Mabena Moon; and Mabena's family and friends on the Island of Tresco, all of whom find themselves in the middle of a mystery involving a missing girl, a case of mistaken identity, a possible murder, and treasure. White makes the most of these plot elements, while also exploring the theme of reconciling Christianity and science. The book is a pure pleasure to read, and I will find it quite difficult to wait for the next book in the Secrets of the Isles series. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of The Nature of a Lady from Bethany House via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.
Loved it!
5 out of 5 stars
JeanneC - 4 years ago
What a lovely first book in The Secrets of the Isles! The Nature of a Lady takes place in 1909 on the Isles of Scilly, a beautiful place I was not aware existed, is now on my bucket list of places to visit! Author Roseanna M White with her skillful pen draws you into this compelling story of belonging, and personal growth, where the main characters encounter mystery, danger, humor, and romance. I loved it! Lady Elizabeth "Libby" Sinclair longs for a break from societal expectations, she has different interests and gifts than most women in her social set. Her mother and brother allow her to travel with her lady's maid Mabena to the Isles of Scilly for a relaxing vacation near Mabena's hometown. Libby is a nature lover and brings her sketch pad & microscope to study the unique flowers and plants that grow there. Here she meets warm and welcoming people who are undeterred by her title and treat her the same as everyone else. She thrives in this setting and meets Oliver Tremayne, another botanist and nature lover. They are drawn into the mystery of finding his missing sister. Excellent character development, descriptions of the beautiful islands, and a great cast of secondary characters. I especially loved Oliver's grandma Mamm-wynn, Mabena, Casek, Sheridan, and Elizabeth's brother Lord Telford. Some of my favorite quotes from The Nature of a Lady: "How lovely to just be who you were meant to be." "I was planted in a garden in which I don't belong. And I don't know how to flourish there anymore." "And so, we learn what we can and make the best decision possible, do the work to the best of our ability, tend it with care. And we pray, trusting that the Master Gardener will bless our efforts." I highly recommend The Nature of a Lady, and I cannot wait for the next story in this series! Thank you to the publisher, and net galley for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.
Perfect Mix of Romance and Intrigue
5 out of 5 stars
Mel Andres - 4 years ago
"He knows your name. Your true name, the one at the heart of you that has never been spoken. He knows you, and He calls you by it. You, in all your uniqueness...He knows how you fit into this world." Oh. My. Word!! What a masterful, engaging, unique story this is! The characters, each and every one of them. The friendships, the drama, the intrigue, the setting. You will be pulled into the world of the Isle of Scilly and wish to never return. I can always count on Roseanna M. White to write the most intelligent, unique, absolutely loveable heroines. I don't know how she does it time and time again! And Libby is no exception. Born into high society and being pushed into a marriage she does not want, she talks her mother into letting her escape for the summer to the island of Scilly with her handmaid (who has a tale of her own!). This is where the adventure begins. When she's mistaken for another Elizabeth and left with clues as to where this other Elizabeth has gone, she dives in head first to help "Beth's" brother, Oliver, find his sister before anything happens to her. This story is exactly what we've come to expect from Ms. White...and if this is your first one of her books, devour this one. And then go find yourself any of her previous works! You won't be disappointed. I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
A Wonderful Blend of Historical Mystery and Romance!
5 out of 5 stars
Booklovingmomof5 - 4 years ago
I admit it: I get more than just a little excited whenever I hear a new book by Roseanna M. White is in the works. I always wonder if her newest novel could possibly live up to my high expectations. With her May 2021 release, The Nature of a Lady, White has once again blown me away! The first installment in her Secrets of the Isles series transports readers to the Isles of Scilly off the coast of Cornwall, England, in 1906. It is a wonderful blend of historical mystery and Christian romance about a bright female botanist, Lady Elizabeth “Libby” Sinclair, and Oliver Tremayne, a gentleman and clergyman. Seeking a break from pressures, Libby ventures to the Isles of Scilly to explore the flora and fauna of the area. Unexpectedly, she stumbles upon some unnerving secrets left behind by the former occupant of the cottage where she is staying for the summer. That lady, who also happens to be named Elizabeth, has gone missing, and Oliver, her brother, is determined to discover what has become of her. He and Libby work together in the search for Beth, which becomes a wild adventure involving everything from castle ruins to pirate wrecks. White is a master of character development, and her pacing is perfect in this brilliantly written, highly suspenseful tale. The depth of research she has done to make her story historically accurate is obvious in the rich detail she provides. I highly recommend The Nature of a Lady to fans of historical Christian fiction. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.